Behind the Billionaire's Mask

Emily Walker entered the Walker residence with fear, fully aware of the storm she was about to face, but her mother’s health left her no choice. The familiar scent of lavender and old wood filled her senses, a stark contrast to the turmoil in her heart.

“Hey Dad, can I borrow $50,000? Mommy needs dialysis, and we don’t have any money,” Emily’s voice trembled, her eyes pleading.

Mr. Walker began, “Emily, the thing is…”

But Mrs. Walker, her stepmother, cut Mr. Walker off sharply, “How shameless of you to come here and ask for money!”

Emily’s anger flared, but she swallowed it down, her fists clenching at her sides. “I promise I’ll pay you back,” she pleaded.

Mr. Walker, holding his wife’s hand, said anxiously, “Maybe we can give her the money because her mother is sick.”

“You’re still thinking about your ex, huh?” Mrs. Walker again cut her husband’s suggestion.

“No, no…the thing is,” Mr. Walker stuttered, but Mrs. Walker cut him off.

“Should I remind you that this is your family now, George? Without me, you have nothing.”

Grace Walker, Emily’s stepsister, entered the room. “Aww, is my loser sister here begging for money? How pathetic.” Her laughter filled the room, making Emily feel even more embarrassed.

She stood up to leave, but Grace’s voice stopped her.

“We’ll give you the money if…”

There was a flash of disgust in Grace Walker’s eyes. She kept smiling and said, “The Griffins family only said they wanted to marry the daughter of the Walkers, and you will marry Alexander Griffin in my place.”

Boom!!

This was like a bolt from the blue. Upon hearing this, Mrs. Walker’s eyes lit up with surprise. She couldn’t help but praise her daughter, “Oooo, my daughter is so smart. That’s a good idea.”

Emily couldn’t believe what she had just heard. Alexander Griffin?? The illegitimate son of the Griffin family? Wasn’t he in jail right now?

Grace Walker sarcastically replied, “Yup. He is a dirtbag and a good-for-nothing loser. That’s why I can’t marry him.”

Mrs. Walker intervened again, “That’s right. She is also a Walker, so she can marry Alexander Griffin.”

Emily’s mind raced. Marry Alexander Griffin? The man who was a criminal?

The thought of marrying someone like him made her nauseous.

“WHY ME GOD?” Emily’s voice was barely audible, tears welling up in her eyes.

Grace’s smile widened, “because it’s a win-win for us. You get the money, and I do not have to marry a shitty man.”

Emily felt suffocated, her options were limited. She looked at her father, hoping for some mercy, but he looked away like she was not present there.

Mrs. Walker’s voice was final, “It’s now or never, Emily. This is your mom's only shot”.

Emily’s heart beats louder in her chest. She had no choice. For her mother’s health, she had to agree. “Fine,” she whispered.

“I’LL MARRY ALEXANDER GRIFFIN.”

Grace clapped her hands in celebration as she remembered her deal with an unknown person who approached her to convince Emily to marry Alexander Griffin “Wonderful! I can’t wait to see where this goes.”

As Emily left the Walker residence, her mind raced with emotions. She had just agreed to marry a man whom she did not know, all for the sake of her mother.

***

In the lightly lit cell of the police station, Alexander was lying aimlessly lost in thoughts planning and plotting his strategies.

An officer unlocked the cell.. “Alexander! Get up!”

Alexander didn’t react at all, his eyes closed as if he were lost in a deep sleep.

Seeing Alex's reaction officer was losing his patience, and his tone became sharper with each word, “Alexander, I said move it!”

Annoyed by the officer’s voice, Alexander finally opened his eyes, with an unbothered tone, “Geez, Officer, what’s the rush?”

The officer replied, “Most people wanna get out of here faster.”

With a shrug, Alexander rose from the hard, uncomfortable cot. “Let’s get you out of here,” The officer said and warned, “Don’t drive so fast next time. I won’t let you go after three days again.”

Alex’s lips curled into an evil smile. “I can’t make that promise, Officer.”

Not convinced by Alex's reply the officer gave a slight shake of his head. Alexander left the police station, looking absolutely breathtaking with his cold, mysterious eyes that hinted at secrets hidden within. The officers couldn’t shake the feeling of a shiver trailing down their backs as he passed them.

A sleek black Rolls-Royce was parked outside the police. Richard, his secretary, was leaning by the car waiting for him. Alex approached him and asked, “Richard, is everything going according to plan?”

Richard told Alex with a mysterious smile, “You being in jail is the perfect alibi. Your father doesn’t suspect a single thing.”

Alex seemed to remember something, “Oh, and what about the Walker family? Any issues there?”

Richard replied, “The Walkers have agreed to marry their daughter to you.”

One corner of Alex’s lips curled up as he said, “Hmmm, interesting… The Walkers kept their word, the real game has begun”.

Alexander whispered something into Richard’s ear, Richard nodded “You got it, boss.”

Alex smiled evilly saying, “This is the final puzzle piece. So it begins…”

With a roar of the engine, the car raced off, Alexander was lost in his thoughts Walker had agreed to give him what was his, now he had to strategize with his partner. How was he going to protect what was hidden for so long….

Three weeks later At the Walker family residence, the backyard was turned into a breathtaking display of flowers and glowing lights. The sweet fragrance of jasmine and roses was mixed with the glow of twinkling light. Soft soothing classical music playing in the background was blended with the laughter and gossip of guests, despite the splendid atmosphere Emily was feeling suffocated…..suffocated by the responsibilities.

***

With an anxious expression, 18-year-old Emily tightly held a bouquet of white lilies. Her heart raced with the mere thought of marrying Alexander Griffin, the man she had never met or even known.

Her soon-to-be husband was nowhere to be found and Emily waited nervously for him. Mr. Walker, standing beside her, tried to reassure her, “Don’t worry, I’m sure the groom will be here soon.”

Emily replied, “Just to be sure, as long as I do this, you’ll give me the money, right?”

With a mocking look Mrs. Walker said, “Yes, Emily. Just get the wedding over with, and we’ll give you your money, okay?” devoid of any empathy, her tone was cold.

Emily shot back, “You better keep your word.”

The backyard was buzzing with gossip. “I can’t believe they’re marrying their daughter to Alexander Griffin,” one guest whispered.

Another added, “The Griffin family is powerful, but Alexander is a bastard and an outcast. I heard he’s always out with thugs and can’t keep a job.”

A third guest joined in sarcastically, “Oh, guess what? He’s late for his own wedding.”

Grace Walker approached with a smirk, her eyes gleaming with malice. “Excited for your wedding? How does it feel to be marrying a bastard child? You know, his own family didn’t even show up for his wedding. And I heard he’s ugly as fuck.”

Emily, unable to bear the humiliation, shouted, “Can you be quiet? At least show some respect!”

With a sudden hush, all eyes turned towards the entrance, as Alexander Griffin entered the backyard. Dressed in a sleek black coat that matched perfectly with his pale skin. His presence was difficult to ignore and he was very commanding. He has sharp and chiseled features. His gaze was fixed on his dear wife and when Emily’s gaze met his, Alex's world seemed to freeze for a moment, she was wearing a white off-shoulder gown that hugged in all the right places, enhancing her every curve and her hazel eyes were sparking like a golden sea, he was ready to be drown in them.

Moving through the crowd of guests, Alex made his way toward Emily, taking a confident stride. “Excuse me,” he mumbled. “Sorry I’m late,” he said apologetically as he approached Emily.

“You must be the bride,” he continued, a warm smile spreading across his face. “I’m your groom, Alexander Griffin.” he added.

For the first time, Emily laid eyes on Alex and she gasped in disbelief. He was nothing like she had imagined ----- his features were cold and icy but he was very handsome. He had some strange aura around him. Meanwhile, from distance, Grace's eyes were wide with shock, unable to process what was happening. In a fit of anger, she stormed off.

Alex took a quick look at Grace as she walked away, then turned back to Emily. “Shall we?” he asked.

The priest stood solemnly between Emily and Alex, ready to begin the wedding prayers. “Good morning, ladies and gentlemen, family and friends. Today we gather to witness and celebrate an act of deep love,” he began.

Alex leaned closer to Emily. “I wasn’t aware that the Walker family has two daughters. I thought I was marrying Grace today.”

Emily, her expression indifferent, replied, “I’m the older one.”

Alex raised an eyebrow, intrigued. “Hmmm… interesting.”

“My dad divorced my mom when I was three.”

Alex, chuckling, responded, “You are just like me. The black sheep of the family. Huh!”

Emily crossed her arms over her chest. “Are you disappointed? You are not marrying the Walker family heiress.”

Alex shook his head, “I don’t think I am. Are you? Disappointed you are marrying a good-for-nothing loser?”

Emily confidently replied. “Can’t say I am. And you shouldn’t talk down on yourself like that.”

Their conversation was interrupted by the priest’s question. “Do you, Alexander Griffin, take Emily Walker as your wife? To have and to hold, in sickness and in health, till death do you part?”

“I do,” Alex replied firmly.

The priest turned to Emily. “Do you, Emily Walker, take Alexander Griffin as your husband?”

Emily looked directly into Alexander’s eyes, “I do.”

With that, they exchanged rings, and the priest pronounced them husband and wife. Leaning closer to Alex’s ear, he whispered, “You may now kiss the bride.”

Alex moved forward aiming at her tempting red rosy lips but Emily seemed to sense this and turned her cheek towards him. Alex’s expression shifted to one of mild surprise and he kissed her on the cheek.

As the guests began to leave, Emily felt a wave of panic wash over her. She tried to appear calm, but inside she was panicking gathering her courage, she hesitantly asked, “Err, so what happens now?”

Alex smiled mischievously. “What do you mean?” he asked, raising one corner of his mouth. “You are my wife now. Of course, you’re going to move in.”

Boom! Boom! Boom!

The words struck Emily like lightning, leaving her stunned and uncertain about the future.

Soon they reached Alex's apartment, and he carefully put Emily’s suitcase into the corner “Thank you, that’s very kind of you”, Emily said while carefully inspecting the apartment. Alex, with a warm smile, “No worries, this is our home now.” He added, “It’s not much, but I hope you like it”.

“No, it’s very cozy, I like it when things are simple”.

“Make yourself at home, this is our home now,” Alex replied.

Emily, remembering something asked, “Oh……., which room will I be staying in?”

Alex hesitated for a moment before leaning closer and placing a hand on her back, it sent a shiver down her spine. “Oh, um, there’s only one bedroom in this house,” he said, his breath warm against her ear. “So I guess we’ll be sleeping together. Isn’t that what married people do?”

Emily’s cheeks flushed red, “Umm, I mean, I’m not ready to… Don’t you think it’s a little…?” She struggled. “It’s like we barely know each other, and I’m only eighteen, and you’re in your thirties. We should wait.”

Alex chuckled softly. “Hahaha, I’m just messing with you” he. “Jokes aside, we both don’t want to be in this situation. And when the trust fund is released, we can get a divorce.”

Emily extended her hand to shake his, saying, “Deal”.

As they shook hands, Alex abruptly pulled her closer, his eyes locking onto hers. “Oh, and do not bring disgrace until we’re married,” he said firmly.

Emily nodded. “Until we’re divorced, I will be a good wife and respect our wedding.”

“Go take the bed, and I’ll take the couch,” Alex said, his tone softening as he released her. He watched her walk towards the bedroom.

Emily lay in the bed, staring at the ceiling aimlessly, not knowing what’s for after she sacrificed her marriage and married a stranger but at the same time she was relieved that Alex is not creepy or a monster, like everyone had portrayed him.

In the living room, Alex lay on the couch feeling satisfied by all the games he had plotted, going in the right direction.

It’s been ages since Emily had slept this peacefully. She rolled out her bed and made her way to the bathroom. She filled the tub with hot water and got her tired body into the tub, hot water wiped out all exhaustion from her body and she relaxed there for an hour.

“Awww!! This feels so nice, I could stay there the whole day”, Emily said while stretching her arms. She got dressed, slipping on a simple crop top with jeans then she made her way to the kitchen, her eyes widened at the breathtaking sight before her.

Alex lay on the sofa, shirtless, his abs hinting at a well-built body. Emily crouched down and gently placed her finger on his closed eye then his nose. His sharp features were tensed, and his brow was furrowed. “He must be having a bad dream”. She thought. With a soft touch, Emily smoothed out the tension from his brows and wiped the beads of sweat from his forehead. She quietly stood up and made her way to the kitchen.

Alex woke up and took a shower, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee enveloped him as he stepped inside the kitchen. He was taken aback to see a delicious breakfast on the dining table. “Oh, you made breakfast?” he asked with a surprising tone. No one had ever done this for him after his mother left.

“Aww!! Alex you startled me”, Emily gasped while placing her hand over her heart.

“Err! Sorry I did not mean to”, Alex said in an apologetic tone “I have to return my wedding dress. I won’t be able to join you, you enjoy”

Sipping his coffee, Alex couldn’t help but comment, “Your father wouldn’t even buy you a wedding dress? I thought your family was rich.”

Emily paused, holding the door handle, and replied, “It was a waste to buy an expensive wedding dress and wear it only once.” She gave a small, wistful smile. “I’ll see you later,” she added, before stepping out.

Alex’s demeanor flipped as soon as Emily left. He dialed his secretary. “Richard, collect all the information on Emily Walker,” he commanded.

Richard arrived at Alex’s apartment, he could not believe that his boss was living in this shack. “Boss, are you really going to live in this shack with Ms. Walker? Why not take her to the penthouse or Griffin residence?”

Alex cut him off. “And what? Tell her my real identity?”

Richard looked puzzled but handed over the documents. Alex scanned through them, his expression softening as he read. “Emily Walker… looks like she had a tough life,” he murmured to himself.

“Where are you going, boss?” Richard asked concerningly.

With a smile, Alex replied, “I’m going to check on my wife.”

Her heart raced while she stood frozen in place, the wedding dress was in her hand and the shopkeeper was busy inspecting the shoes. She hoped for a routine handover but. But now, the situation had escalated into something more troubling.

The shopkeeper looked into Emily’s eyes. “They are too damaged,” she repeated, “$500 is restoration fee.”

Emily could not process all this $500 is an insane amount. She had been careful with these shoes, tiptoeing around to avoid scratches. How could they be so damaged? She glanced at the worn-out soles, and the scuffed leather, and felt a surge of frustration. “But these are rentals,” she protested. “Of course, there’s going to be wear and tear.”

Her lips formed a tight line. "Wear and tear, yes," she said disdainfully. “But this—is beyond wear and tear.”

Emily’s heart sank. She couldn’t afford $500, if she could why would she buy a rental dress but real “I might as well buy a new pair,” she muttered.

The shopkeeper’s eyes narrowed. “Sure,” she said, “Go buy it then. Can you afford it?” Her gaze lingered on Emily's simple attire and wore-out sneakers, “Don’t buy things if you can’t afford them,” she added.

Emily wanted to protest about the rude behavior of the shopkeeper but decided to let it go, a familiar scent enveloped her—a mix of sandalwood and fresh rain. She turned, and there stood Alex, her husband, he stepped forward, placing a protective hand on Emily’s waist. “These are way too ugly for my wife,” he said, “How about these? You tried them out?” he pointed at the shoes placed in the limited edition section Emily’s eyes widened. Those shoes were a work of art—red-bottomed, limited edition, and worth freaking $5k. She glanced at Alex, trying to send signals to him The shopkeeper rolled her eyes, “Limited edition,” she scoffed. “But if you want them, fine.”

His eyes remained fixed, staring directly into the shopkeeper’s eyes. “We’ll take it.”

“Alex,” she whispered, “that’s insane. We can’t possibly spend that much on shoes!”

The shopkeeper stepped forward and sensed they were gonna buy that pair of shoes. “Sit down, both of you,” gesturing toward a plush velvet sofa.

Emily sank into the sofa. How could she even consider such an offer?

“What is your shoe size, ma’am?” the shopkeeper asked.

Before Emily could reply she heard Alex's confident voice, “She’s a seven,” he said, as if it were the most natural thing in the world. Emily shot him a surprised look. How did he know her shoe size?

Before Emily could ask Alex explained himself, winking at her, “I’m your husband,”

“I know these kinds of things.”

The shopkeeper returned with the shoes, placing them delicately on a velvet cushion. “Please try these,” she said, her eyes analyzing Emily’s reaction.

Emily took off her worn sneakers and carefully stepped into the new pair. They fit like a glove and she caught Alex’s approving gaze.

But then Alex’s voice brought her back to reality. “Are you going to watch,” he said to the shopkeeper, his tone stern.

The shopkeeper hesitated, “If there’s a problem,” he warned, “I’ll speak to your boss.”

“Alex!”

Emily tried to stop him To her surprise, the shopkeeper knelt down and adjusted the straps.

“That looks lovely, they fit like a glove” Alex declared, taking out a platinum card from his pocket.

SQEAK!!!!

$5k was paid.